36 Longbridge Rd, Barking IG11 8RY

About This Pub

Ah, China Friend – it's one of those local gems in Barking that's been around for over a decade, serving up authentic Chinese fare that's generally a hit with the crowd. From what I've gathered chatting about places like this, the food really shines when it's on form; think tasty starters like chicken spring rolls or butterfly king prawns that are full of flavour and freshly cooked, leaving you chuffed with the value for money. The portions are often generous, which is brilliant if you're after something hearty, and the halal options make it accessible for more folks. Plus, the staff can be lovely, creating that cosy, quiet vibe that's ideal for a casual dinner or even a takeaway night in. But, let's be honest, it's not all smooth sailing – some recent feedback suggests the odd order might turn up watery or skimpy on portions, which could leave you a bit underwhelmed, especially if you've been going there for years like a few have. There are also niggles with inconsistent service and accessibility issues, like the lack of proper facilities for wheelchair users, so it's worth keeping in mind if you're planning a visit with friends or family. Overall, I'd say it's worth giving it a go if you're in the area and fancy some Chinese, but maybe check the latest on their menu or pop in for a quick recce first – that way, you can enjoy the highs and steer clear of any potential lows.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The food is generally delicious and packed with flavour, especially their fresh Cantonese and Hong Kongese dishes that hit the spot after a long day.
  • Portions are generous, so you'll likely leave feeling well-fed without breaking the bank – it's a proper bargain for an inexpensive spot.
  • The staff are friendly and welcoming, making you feel right at home, and they've got that cosy, minimalist vibe that's perfect for a relaxed meal.
  • It's halal and offers eat-in or delivery, with handy perks like free prawn crackers for orders over £15, which is a nice touch for families or groups.
Cons
  • Some recent orders have been a bit disappointing, with watery dishes and smaller portions that don't quite live up to expectations, especially for regulars.
  • Service can be inconsistent; a few folks have mentioned less than friendly experiences, which might put a dampener on your visit.
  • Accessibility is a downside – while the main area is easy to get to, there aren't proper facilities for wheelchair users in the toilets, which is a shame.
  • Based on a couple of recent reviews, the quality seems to vary, so it might not always be the reliable choice for a quick bite.

Contact Information

36 Longbridge Rd, Barking IG11 8RY
+442085911328
Chinese
Opens at 12:00

Opening Hours

Monday (Today)12:00 - 22:30
Tuesday12:00 - 22:30
Wednesday12:00 - 22:30
Thursday12:00 - 22:30
Friday12:00 - 23:00
Saturday13:30 - 23:00
Sunday13:30 - 22:30

Location

Recent Reviews

Hello, I am a new person in this city, I am popular and friendly with the people around me. I have been to this restaurant several times in the same way as at home. I was treated by the restaurant manager, trying both the first and second times to continue to be friendly and respectful. The first problem was that I told her that I wanted to eat there under the conditions that she shouted and behaved verbally aggressively as to why I didn't eat at home like she did. She understood that I told her. I kept my calm. I went the second time and ordered under the conditions that she told me 3 times that I was allergic to not add spicy food. She brought me the menu and it was spicy. I called her and explained the same verbally aggressive behavior. She threw my plate in a bad way and brought it not spicy. The third time I ordered from another lady next to her. After I paid, she was there. I asked for a glass of water. She behaved badly, yelling that she only offers it to customers under the conditions that I had already ordered and was a customer. I will not I will never go to this restaurant again in my life except for the behavior of the manager who I don't know what he's doing there if he doesn't know how to behave with customers, stay home on my money, don't be rude to me, don't be verbally aggressive for nothing, we all have problems but work is work, if you're not okay, stay home from me, you have ⭐️, you don't deserve that much, thank you, I don't recommend this restaurant
RR
renata renata
Today me and my family ordered takeaway from China friend . The portions were quite lackluster and half filled . Along witht the portions being quite small the food was watery and lacked flavour . We have been going to China friend for 10 plus years and this was the worst food they have served us since . I hope this was a one off
CL
Choco Late
An amazing place with cosy and minimalist interior design. The food itself was delicious, full of flavour and you could see that it was freshly cooked ❤️ The food portions are huge, so one can fill a grown-man stomach for good. The atmosphere was very comfy - it is a quiet place with minimalist, but eye pleasing Chinese interior design. The staff here is very friendly, ready to take your order and help you with anything you want, always smiling and being polite as much as they can ❤️ Overall, I strongly recommend this restaurant - it is a great place to go out and eat tempting Chinese cuisine 👑
HS
Happy Shadow
VISIT DATE: WED 30/10/2024 VISIT TIME: 12:50-13:50 Lovely restaurant, friendly staff and great food which is reasonably priced, but really disappointed to see that, despite being accessible to wheelchair users from street level, there isn't any access to the toilets for those needing accessibility as the accessible toilet is clearly used for storage and the way to it is totally blocked. Also, seating is benches so unsure how they'd accommodate anyone in a chair. The regular toilets are well maintained, but again, loads of stuff in the corridor area. If they could sort out their storage issues and ensure the accessible toilet was actually usable I'd give this place full marks.
HJ
Hayley J Bacon
My wife and I were craving noodle soup, so we visited this place. It was lovely inside, and the customer service was excellent. They gave us complimentary prawn crackers when we arrived. We tried their Big Bow Noodle Soup with beef in Udon Soup—it was amazing and arrived quickly. Highly recommend this place. The staff were lovely, and they even gave us a gift as we were heading out. We’ll definitely be back soon!
SA
Samiul Alam (প্রত্যয়)

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